Scriptural Basis of Secularism in the Vedas

Abstract

    One of the most discussed words inside India and especially amongst worldwide Hindus today is the word ‘secularism’. There seems to be confusion about what it means to Indians and Hindus in India.There are often diagonally opposite interpretations of the type of secularism Hindus should follow if they are following Vedic teachings. Is Hinduism and its teachings Secular? This paper will try to understand both the dictionary definition of the word secular, and its interpretation by Hindus and various groups.  It will then delve into studying the Vedas and look for references to the concept of secularism defined by the west. If there is any deviation from the interpretation and the original doctrines laid out in the Vedas, an attempt will be made to look for causes for this discrepancy.